Mac (Melvin) Smith

Mac (Melvin) Smith, 89, of Minocqua, passed to Eternal Life on Oct. 2, 2019, with his wife of 68 years, Harriette and daughter, Cindy (Bill) Ross at his side. He is also survived by his son, Larry Smith of Marengo, Ill.; grandchildren, Bill Ross, Joe Ross and Kathryn (Seth) Watterson and great-grandchildren, Rubie and Brooks.

He was born in Chicago on Dec. 22, 1929 to Frank and Josephine Smith. Mac graduated from Taft High School and attended Wright Jr. College. While a proud member of Marble Setters Local 66, he was involved in the placement of beautiful marble in many iconic buildings, including the Sears Tower in Chicago.

Mac served in the First Infantry Division of the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. In 1960, the family moved to Presque Isle Lake and subsequently Lake Kawaga and Timber Ridge in Minocqua. For 30 years, he drove school bus and operated a lawn and home maintenance service.

An avid sportsman, Mac played softball in several leagues in Chicago and the Northwoods, bowled and golfed. He remained a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears. Retirement included winters in Lake Havasu City, Ariz., golfing with friends, walks along the Colorado River and visits to Las Vegas.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Per Mac’s wishes, cremation will take place and private family services will be held at a later date.